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An Affordable Fall Wardrobe

This week, students at St. Mary`s high school in Bismarck are roaming the halls once again. And in accordance with the rules, they`re dressed for the part.

"Research shows that kids who are dressed more professional are going to act more professional in the classroom and seem to do better," said principal Tom Eberle.

No matter if you`re shopping for business or casual, finding a wardrobe for the year ahead doesn`t have to be expensive. For a better deal, there`s no shame in checking thrift or gently used stores to find something more unique.

"And it`s the kids that`re bringing the parents in and the one Dad was just amazed. He said, `I`m not going to spend $100 on two pairs of jeans and they came in here, walked out with a bag full of stuff for, I think it was $130," said Plato`s Closet Owner Jeri Poppe-Werner.

Plato`s Closet in Bismarck buys back clothes year-round, but Poppe-Werner says the store normally gets slammed around the middle of August.

"I`m really thinking this generation is a lot more thrifty. They know it`s ok to do this. Why go to the mall, spend the retail price when some of this stuff is brand new or they can get next to new."

Now, if your family is under a tight budget when it comes to back to school clothing, one organization in Bismarck is sponsoring a clothing drive this week. Many of the items have never been worn.

"The price tags are still on it, so the community`s been awesome," said Youthworks AmeriCorps Worker Ethan Hoepfner.

Youthworks is hosting a free event Friday evening at Sleepy Hollow park to help any families who struggle to pay for new clothes.

"And just come and get their clothing, shop and pick out their wardrobe," Hoepfner said.

Finally, if you`re looking for a way to unload something you`ve never worn, other than selling it back, get a group of families together and organize a clothing swap. A few ways you can find some new outfits and leave a little change in your pocket.

The Youthworks clothing drive runs from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sleepy Hollow Park. There`s no cost to pick up clothing. However, the group will be charging admission for the concert which is open from from 7:00 until 10:00.